Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a common oral health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues. One of the most advanced and effective treatments for periodontal disease is laser periodontal therapy.
This article will discuss periodontal disease, how laser periodontal therapy works, its benefits, and how to care for your teeth and gums after treatment.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums, which support and surround your teeth. It is caused by the build-up of bacteria-filled plaque on the teeth and gums. If not removed through proper oral hygiene, plaque hardens into tartar, causing the gums to become inflamed and irritated. This condition is called gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis, leading to tooth loss and damage to the jawbone.
How Does Laser Periodontal Therapy Work?
Laser periodontal therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a special dental laser to target and remove the infected gum tissue and bacteria that cause periodontal disease. The laser’s precise wavelength allows it to selectively target the infected tissue while leaving the healthy tissue intact.
During the procedure, the dentist uses the laser to carefully remove the infected gum tissue and any tartar deposits on the tooth roots. This process also helps to stimulate the growth of new, healthy gum tissue and bone, promoting healing and regeneration. In some cases, the dentist may also use a dental scaler or curette to clean the tooth roots further and remove any remaining tartar.
What Are the Benefits of Laser Periodontal Therapy?
There are several benefits to choosing laser periodontal therapy over traditional gum disease treatments, such as scaling and root planing or surgical methods. These benefits include:
1. Less Pain and Discomfort
Since the laser is less invasive than traditional methods, patients typically experience less pain and discomfort during and after the procedure.
2. Faster Healing
Laser therapy stimulates the growth of new gum tissue and bone, promoting faster healing and regeneration than traditional treatments.
3. Minimal Bleeding and Swelling
The laser’s precision allows for minimal damage to healthy tissue, resulting in less bleeding and swelling after the procedure.
4. Reduced Risk of Infection
The laser’s ability to target and remove bacteria reduces the risk of infection following the treatment.
5. Less Tooth Sensitivity
Patients often report less tooth sensitivity after laser periodontal therapy compared to traditional treatments.
What Should You Do during Post-therapy Dental Care?
After undergoing laser periodontal therapy, it’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-treatment instructions to ensure a successful recovery and prevent future gum disease. Some tips for post-therapy dental care include:
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and use an antimicrobial mouthwash to keep your mouth clean and bacteria-free.
2. Attend Follow-Up Appointments
Your dentist will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure the success of the treatment. Be sure to attend these appointments as recommended.
3. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding tobacco products can help promote good oral health and prevent the recurrence of gum disease.
4. Consider Professional Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar build-up, reducing the risk of periodontal disease.
Final Thoughts
Laser periodontal therapy is an effective and minimally invasive treatment option for individuals suffering from gum disease. Its numerous benefits, such as reduced pain and faster healing, make it an attractive option for those looking to improve their oral health.
If you need periodontal therapy in Manassas, work with us at Manassas Smiles. Our dental clinic offers oral health care services, including cosmetic dentistry and gum disease treatment. Book a consultation to get started with your treatment.